India Seeks to Strengthen Ties with Germany

India is emerging as a growing force across economic, political, and strategic domains, strengthening its influence in South Asia. However, trade negotiations with the United States have become challenging after President Donald Trump imposed steep tariffs, including a total of 50 percent duties, with 25 percent linked to penalties for importing Russian oil. At the same time, Washington’s increasing engagement with Pakistan has caused unease in New Delhi. Against this backdrop, India has decided to diversify its economic, political, and strategic partnerships instead of relying heavily on the US or Russia.

Germany, facing its own concerns over shifting US policies, is also exploring alternative alliances. This shared outlook has naturally brought India and Germany closer. During Friedrich’s visit, the two nations signed key agreements focusing on defence cooperation, joint military exercises, reciprocal port access for naval ships, and regular consultations on foreign and security policies. Collaboration in defence technology, rare earths, semiconductors, green energy, research and development, trade, investment, education, and employment opportunities has been strengthened. Germany’s continued support for India’s permanent membership in the UN Security Council further underscores the growing depth of this strategic partnership.